Addressing the Malnutrition Crisis in Nigeria
Malnutrition continues to cast a long shadow over Nigeria, affecting the growth, development, and productivity of millions. Despite the existence of robust policies for food and nutrition, the implementation remains weak due to inadequate funding. According to the 2021 National Food Consumption and Micronutrient Survey (NFCMS), approximately 33% of children under five are stunted, and 62% suffer from anemia. These alarming statistics highlight a crisis that threatens the nation’s future, requiring urgent political commitment and financial investment.
The Civil Society Scaling Up Nutrition in Nigeria (CS-SUNN), with support from UNICEF and in collaboration with other partners, is at the forefront of this battle. Working across 19 states, CS-SUNN has consistently driven evidence-based advocacy to increase domestic financing and strengthen political commitment to nutrition. In Gombe State, where malnutrition poses a significant threat, CS-SUNN’s latest initiative sought to achieve two crucial outcomes: extending paid maternity leave from 3 to 6 months and increase in budgetary allocation for nutrition.
The Initiative: One-Day Policy Dialogue and Advocacy Visits
To tackle the issue head-on, CS-SUNN organized a one-day policy dialogue and advocacy visit to key policymakers in Gombe State. The objectives were clear: to secure commitments for the extension of paid maternity leave and to ensure the adequate and timely release of nutrition funds.
The advocacy team targeted influential stakeholders, including Her Excellency, the Governor’s Wife, Speaker of the House of Assembly, Special Adviser to the Governor on Development Matters. The State Commissioner of Women Affairs, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Budget and Planning.
The policy dialogue also featured representatives from both the government and civil society organizations, underscoring the collaborative approach needed to tackle the malnutrition crisis.
Securing Commitments: A Unified Voice for Nutrition:
During the advocacy visits, stakeholders expressed strong support for the initiative. Her Excellency, the Governor’s Wife, reaffirmed her role as a nutrition champion, pledging to leverage her influence to ensure the extension of paid maternity leave. The Special Adviser to the Governor on Development Matters echoed this commitment, stating, “This ask for the extension of paid maternity leave is not an ask but a statement that would be easily passed by the house. Our Governor supports development issues, especially nutrition, and this would not be an exception.”
The Speaker of the House of Assembly also voiced his support, with the Speaker noting, “Members of the house are much interested in nutrition even with the recognition CS-SUNN has in the state; the extension of the paid maternity leave won’t be an issue.”
Results:
The advocacy efforts yielded significant results, with all targeted stakeholders committing to the extension of paid maternity leave. Additionally, there was a collective promise to push for increased budget allocations for nutrition, despite the challenges posed by limited federal funding.
Lessons Learned:
One key lesson learned was the critical role of high-level advocacy in achieving desired outcomes. The strong political will demonstrated during these visits underscored the potential for meaningful change when stakeholders are adequately informed and engaged.
Next Steps: Sustaining the Momentum
The Gombe State chapter of CS-SUNN will continue to follow up with the target audience, ensuring that the commitments made translate into concrete actions. The advocacy team remains committed to seeing the extension of paid maternity leave and increased nutrition funding become a reality, contributing to the broader goal of improving nutrition outcomes in Nigeria.
This advocacy initiative marks a significant step forward in the fight against malnutrition in Gombe State. By securing commitments from key policymakers, CS-SUNN has paved the way for substantial improvements in maternal and child health, setting a powerful example for other states to follow. The extension of paid maternity leave and increased nutrition funding are not just victories for Gombe State but for Nigeria as a whole, as the nation strives to break the cycle of malnutrition and build a healthier, more prosperous future.
